Otoglossum chiriquense

Also known as: The Chirique Otoglossum or Odontoglossum coronarium var. chiriquense in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Panama

General Information

The Chirique Otoglossum is a small sympodial cold to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia and Panama. It is named after the Panama Volcano.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 1cm. Each new growth has a single leathery leaf that grows to 6-30cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4-11cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn

Blooming Season

• Autumn

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 305mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 68% to 85%, highest in October and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 3C to 16C, highest in May (6C to 16C) and lowest in January (3C to 13C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Potting

These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.